OOS 3-2
The community college's role in involving students and the community in environmental science, stewardship and sustainability: A case study - safe passage for Coyote Valley
Faculty and students from the Environmental Studies Department at De Anza College, began a 50-year study on wildlife connectivity in the Central Coast region of California, as part of the Wildlife Science Technician Program. This program was initiated to educate students about wildlife conservation and connectivity, while giving them field experience using scientific methodologies and teaching them about the preservation and restoration of native species and ecosystems. Specifically, the curriculum focuses on the exploration of landscape connectivity related to wildlife conservation in Coyote Valley, Santa Clara County, California, situated between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range. The research objectives were to assess the diversity of mammals and birds in the Coyote Valley landscape, and to assess the valley’s viability as a multi-species wildlife linkage.
Survey techniques for monitoring bird species, included line-transects, variable radius point counts, Breeding Bird Atlas, spot mapping and raptor nest mapping. Mammal surveys were conducted along Highway 101 crossing structures using remote-sensor field cameras and line-transects using formal tracking protocols. Cameras were installed on the east and west sides of the crossing structures so that passage of wildlife could be determined for multi-species and the permeability of Highway 101 in Coyote Valley could be assessed. Cameras were checked monthly, data downloaded, filtered and entered into databases.
Results/Conclusions
Over 200 bird species were recorded, including 21 species of raptors, which represents 54% of the total number of species recorded in Santa Clara County. Twenty-six mammal species were identified within the study area; a total of 9000 camera events were recorded for 2011. Data indicate that Highway 101 through Coyote Valley is permeable to wildlife movement, via three underpasses and twenty-seven culverts. This wildlife corridor is crucial for animals to find seasonal food, travel long distances to find mates or for dispersal out of natal territories. Without the corridor, many populations in the Santa Cruz Mountains would be at risk of genetic isolation and possible local extinction due to stochastic events and no opportunity for re-colonization.
De Anza College students represent the local community. Instilling concern and passion for the wildlife, and teaching them the concepts and tools of ecosystem management is key to preserving local ecosystems and landscape connectivity. In addition to performing scientific research, they practice stewardship, leadership and team building as they complete course work and interact with stakeholders and local, state and federal legislators.